Nippers learn confidence in sea

A Riversdale Surf Life Saving Club lifeguard was prompted to carve out a career in lifesaving after he experienced lifesaving in Riversdale as a nipper.

The Nippers Lifesaving programme at Riversdale began yesterday.

Murdoch Pinch, 21, from Palmerston North, was a student in 2004 and 2005. He said the programme gave him the confidence and the water-safety skills to become a qualified lifeguard.

"I think it's important for all New Zealanders to be able to swim, since so many of us live close to the sea. It's very important from a safety perspective," he said. "My experience on the Nipper programme encouraged me to get in to lifesaving."

Mr Pinch has been a qualified lifeguard for more than six years and he is now operating the Nipper programme which runs until January 22, weekdays from 9am until midday.

"I think it allows children to have fun at the beach in a safe environment," he said.

Club administrator Dave Rose said many kids who enrol on the programme are familiar with the sea when they arrive but the increase in confidence is notable after a few sessions.

"We have kids coming here from the middle of the country hours from the sea and some cannot even put their heads under the water," Mr Rose said. "Some kids have never been on a surf beach before."

They try to teach children to be confident in the water and the nature of the beach ensures the children are much better prepared to be safety conscious. "They learn to deal with a sea rip. When they're caught in a rip they learn to handle it and they also learn duck-diving," Mr Rose said.

Mr Pinch said there is a carnival competition at the end of the programme so participants have a chance to upgrade their skills and gain recognition for their efforts.

The Nipper programme is flexible for those who may have time constraints or may be visiting the area for a short time. Participants can enrol for a few days or until January 22 for the same price of $35. The programme caters for ages 6-8; 9-11; and 11-13.

Email: beaumaris@wise.net.nz or phone: (06) 372 3461